How to Draw Simple Figures in a Painting

Figure painting can be completed with or without a model.

Consider the medium you will be working with before you begin drawing simple figures in a painting. Oil paints dry slowly and have a glossier finish than acrylic. Watercolors can be reactivated at any time by adding water to your brush, while other paints are inert once they dry. Painting a simple figure entails a small amount of planning once you have picked your medium. Start working from a rough rendering and slowly add more definition to complete your project.

Things You'll Need

• Canvas
• Pencil
• Paint
• Brushes

Instructions

1. Sketch out you figure in simple guide lines. Draw a stick figure or create rough ovals to depict the body.

2. Paint a layer of base flesh tone. Define the form using tone most like the skin when it it is not shaded or highlighted.

3. Add shading to your figure. If you are working with a model, examine where the light falls, and recreate the shaded areas accurately.

4. Paint in specular highlights to show the reflection of light off the skin and clothing.

5. Use a smaller brush to add details to the face, hands and feet. When working in the abstract, your amount of detail will vary.

Tips & Warnings

• Different types of paint react differently to water and the canvas.

• Allow your work to dry before adding another layer if you are trying to avoid mixing tones.

References

• Paint Sculpt: Figure Painting